Adipose Tissue Processing Device with Flexible Membrane Seal
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Autologous fat transfer procedures face risks of infection, contamination, and tissue damage due to the handling and processing of adipose tissue, which are not adequately addressed by existing technologies.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a container and filter with a flexible membrane that forms a fluid-tight seal, allowing for the collection, processing, and reimplantation of tissue while reducing shear forces and maintaining tissue quality, incorporating a single system for aseptic collection, cleaning, and transfer of adipose tissue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If adipose tissue is transferred between multiple instruments during harvesting and processing, then the tissue can be collected and prepared for implantation, but the risk of infection, contamination, and tissue damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (harvesting, processing, and transfer) into a single integrated device system. The processing container includes both collection and processing chambers that work together, eliminating the need to transfer tissue between separate instruments and thereby reducing contamination risk while maintaining functional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a closed-system transfer mechanism as an intermediary between the collection chamber and processing chamber. This intermediary system allows tissue to move between chambers without exposure to the external environment, preventing contamination while enabling the necessary processing steps.
2Productivity
If traditional processing methods are used, then tissue can be collected and prepared, but surgical time increases and tissue quality decreases due to handling and transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous processing of adipose tissue through a closed system where tissue moves directly from the collection chamber to the processing chamber without interruption or removal from the device. This continuous action eliminates time losses associated with manual transfer and handling while maintaining tissue quality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate devices are used for harvesting and processing, then each function can be optimized independently, but the overall process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a processing container that performs multiple functions within a single device: it serves as both a collection chamber and a processing chamber with integrated filtration and preparation capabilities. This multi-functional design maintains functional optimization while reducing system complexity through integration.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution reduces the risk of complications such as infection and graft failure, improves tissue quality, and decreases surgical time by providing a streamlined process for harvesting and processing adipose tissue, applicable to various tissue types.
Implementation Method 1
causing the flexible membrane to expand within the tissue collection chamber to apply pressure to the tissue within the first tissue collection chamber to transfer the tissue out of the tissue collection chamber
Implementation Method 2
a filter having a peripheral rim portion, wherein the filter is positioned within the container such that the peripheral rim portion engages at least one inner surface of the container to define a first tissue collection chamber and a second filtrate collection chamber
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides devices and methods for harvesting and processing tissue from patients for grafting. The devices can include a tissue collection chamber for ascetically collecting, processing, and/or re-implanting adipose tissue.